Toronto getting a new park as part of mega-development

Toronto will be getting a new park as part of a mega-development currently under construction at Bloor Street West and Dufferin Street, which will eventually consist of six mixed-use condominiums and affordable rental buildings. 

The forthcoming baseball field-sized park, located at 70 Croatia St., will be bordered by a residential development to the north, a new public street to the west, and a new private street to the east. 

The park's project team is using feedback obtained through a community engagement process to develop a preferred design for the park. 

The project is nearing the end of its second phase of community engagement and will enter its third and final one in the fall, with a detailed design process following suit, and construction commencing in fall 2025. 

According to the City, the park will be a "sustainable, green oasis with a mix of peaceful spaces to rest, areas to gather and socialize, and space for play." 

Local residents and community members can currently vote between two different proposed designs for the park, both of which pay tribute to Indigenous values. 

The first design concept, titled "Braid Park: Water + Reeds," is inspired by Denison Creek, which runs beneath the site. This concept specifically pays tribute to Indigenous values related to water and braids. 

Design concept #1: Braid Park: Water + Roads. Photo: City of Toronto.

One key element is the park's shade structures, which in this concept, were designed to mimic the shape of canoes to reflect the park's theme of water. Its play structure is also proposed to resemble reeds. 

The second design option, titled "Moon Park: Cycles + Stories," is inspired by Indigenous values of star teaching and the stories of the 13 Grandmother Moons. 

In this design, the park's shade structures integrate constellation patterns and are large arches mimicking celestial maps. This second proposal also includes a story circle, which could provide an opportunity for small ceremonial purposes. 

Design concept #2: Moon Park: Cycles + Stories. Photo: City of Toronto.

The second design option also includes stacked terrace-style seating and a proposed skateboarding option.

Both park design concepts include a washroom and drinking fountain, adult exercise equipment, quiet seating areas, misting corridors, and lawn areas. 

Local residents have until July 22, 2024, to provide feedback on the two design options through a survey. With the City's current timeline, the park is estimated to open in the fall of 2026.